NARD Opposes Bill That Could Jail Doctors Over Emergency-Care Delays

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has rejected a Senate bill that would make healthcare workers and hospitals liable to a six-month jail term or a fine of up to ₦300,000 for delays in emergency care. The proposed amendment to the National Health Act has passed its second reading and would set timelines for treating and referring emergency patients. NARD says prompt emergency care is important, but argues that punishing doctors without addressing systemic failures is unfair. It cited staff shortages, outdated equipment, power outages, limited emergency supplies and deteriorating hospital infrastructure. The association called for the punitive clauses to be withdrawn and urged lawmakers to prioritise better funding, equipment and staffing. It warned that the bill could worsen the loss of doctors to the Japa trend and said it may consider lawful action if the proposal advances in its current form, while protecting emergency patients.

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